To encourage mutual research in the areas of science, technology, engineering and humanities between France and Ireland, the Ulysses funding programme was launched on July 14th, Bastille Day.
Both the Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology (IRCSET) and the Irish Research Council for the Humanities and Social Sciences (IRCHSS) are providing grants of up to €2,500 for Irish and French researchers working on shared projects.
The programme aims to nurture innovation and research by funding Irish researchers traveling to France and vice versa, as well as organizing research workshops to both encourage inter-country collaboration and for networking purposes.
Dr Anne Welcker, science assistant for the French Embassy, said: “We are pleased to facilitate the exchange of ideas between researchers in France and Ireland.
“The Ulysses programme brings together inquiring minds from each country, allowing them to develop relationships and build networks that are mutually beneficial.”
The closing date for applications is October 1st. Funding is provided for short-term visits to partner institutions, with travel and other inherent costs covered.
Researchers in the early stages of their careers are particularly encouraged to apply for funding from the Ulysses Programme this year.
Prof Frank Hegarty, vice chair of IRCSET, said: “We are pleased to work closely with the French Embassy and our colleagues in IRCHSS to deliver this funding which is important in creating strong links between the research communities in Ireland and France.”
By Marie Boran
